Julapan, leader and prime ministerial candidate of the Pheu Thai Party, affirms the party is not closing its own path and is able to collaborate with both the orange and blue camps. He asks the People's Party to clarify their definition of "with us, no gray"—who exactly does that exclude? He also reveals that the launch of Dr. Chen has been well received.
On 22 December 2025 GMT+7, Julapan Amornwiwat, leader and prime ministerial candidate of the Pheu Thai Party, revealed on the program "Open Up with Pakpoom" on Thairath TV about the reception following the party’s introduction of its prime ministerial candidate. He said the response has been positive, with Pheu Thai supporters remaining loyal. Initially, people asked who Yotsachan Wongsawat, or Dr. Chen, was, but upon seeing his persona, the feedback has been quite good, which matches their expectations.
Julapan stated that today people feel politics is dominated by conflict, and the country's progress is hindered. Pheu Thai wants innovation and thus brings new elements into politics. Dr. Chen represents this novelty as an academic figure with deep knowledge, especially in AI. He brings systematic thinking into politics to help push the country forward.
Regarding recent polls, Julapan said they listen carefully: they do not become overly jubilant with good results nor discouraged by bad ones, using them instead as challenges to improve. Many remain undecided, and he believes Dr. Chen will be a key factor for Pheu Thai and an answer for Thai society because Dr. Chen does not engage in political conflict and is not part of that cycle. Instead, he focuses on how technology and AI can contribute to national development, aiming for economic leaps. They hope the remaining 50% undecided voters will consider Pheu Thai.
When asked about Dr. Chen’s prior statement that if Pheu Thai forms the government, he would be prime minister, Julapan confirmed that this is definitely the case.
Regarding Nattapong Ruangpanyawut, leader and prime ministerial candidate of the People's Party, who said if Bhumjaithai wins first place, the People's Party will be the opposition, and whether Pheu Thai has conditions on coalition partners, Julapan said that in the election process, they must await the people's voice, as it is the people who choose. He added that Pheu Thai is not closing its own path because they see the current situation and worry that the People's Party might repeat past issues—winning elections but unable to form a government and drive the state and country forward. They have no restrictions, aiming to proceed with elections, connect with the people, and hope to be ranked first to form a government. Coalition partners will depend on seat numbers, as political mathematics apply. He emphasized that political alliances depend on ideological and policy similarities, which will be considered.
Regarding past conflicts with Bhumjaithai and whether they can still talk or ally, Julapan said that politics in parliament has seen all kinds of clashes, but once the mission is over, he shares Dr. Chen's belief that everyone wishes well for the country. Thailand has argued for too long. If people think old opponents cannot talk, how will the country move forward? Given that no party is expected to win a majority next election, discussions and opportunities for dialogue must open to set aside problems and prioritize solving people's issues. The same applies to the People's Party; Pheu Thai does not hold grudges and hopes everyone can join together to move forward.
Regarding the People's Party's claim of "with us, no gray," Julapan questioned who the 'gray' are in their view, including whether the process that elected Anutin as leader was gray, noting there was a problem of collusion yet he was still elected.
Asked if Pheu Thai will respect the rules if it does not come first, Julapan said they will honor the party that wins first place in gathering support. If that party approaches Pheu Thai, policies will be considered. However, if Pheu Thai is first, they have no restrictions and will look at democratic ideology and policies to form a government.
Julapan concluded by saying this election is crucial for the country’s progress. Pheu Thai is prepared, experienced, and capable. The party has policies that address the people's needs and inspire hope. He believes only Pheu Thai can effectively solve economic and livelihood issues.